the SRS WEEKLY

Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year at Swarthmore-Rutledge School! We are eager to open our doors for another year filled with new opportunities, meaningful learning experiences, and strong home-school partnerships. As we begin the new school year, we are also excited to introduce the Panther Pulse, our newly named weekly family newsletter.

The Panther Pulse will replace the weekly newsletter format used in previous years and will serve as our primary source of school updates, announcements, reminders, and celebrations. You may notice that this first edition is a bit lengthier than usual. We encourage families to read through it carefully, as it contains important information about the start of the school year, including updates to district practices related to technology use and transportation. As the year progresses, we will continue to refine and streamline our communications to help consolidate information and make it easier for families to stay informed.

A friendly reminder to families of new students that our New Student Open House will take place on August 20th. This is a wonderful opportunity for new Kg-5 students and families to become familiar with SRS, meet staff members, and begin building connections before the first day of school. Additional details can be found in our Smore newsletter.

We are also pleased to share some staffing updates for second grade. Please join us in officially welcoming Erin Gallagher to our staff as a contracted second grade teacher. We are equally excited to welcome back Kate Judge to second grade. Ms. Judge will be filling in for Tina Smart until her return later in the school year. We are grateful for the continuity that both Ms. Gallagher and Ms. Judge bring to our students, as they each worked with our second grade team last year and are familiar faces within our school community.

Class placements for the 2026-2027 school year will be available in PowerSchool today after 4:00 p.m. We understand that families look forward to this information, and we would like to share some insight into our placement process.

The development of class placements is a thoughtful and collaborative process. Classroom teachers play a significant role in this work, as they know students' academic, social, and emotional needs best. In addition, Dr. Tuck provided valuable input prior to her retirement to help support a smooth transition and ensure continuity in our placement planning.

Please remember that while we are unable to accommodate requests for specific teachers, we do carefully consider the qualities and instructional approaches that may best support each child's success when creating class placements.

We are eager to begin another year of learning, partnership, and community at SRS. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing our students soon.

Warmly,

Dr. Alexis McGloin
Interim Principal
Swarthmore-Rutledge School (SRS)

QUICK LINKS: FORMS | ATTENDANCE | HOME & SCHOOL | POWERSCHOOL | CLEARANCES

PANTHER PULSE NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE

September 7 - Holiday- no school

September 17 - Back to School Night followed by a meet-up at Shipbottom

September 15- Picture Day

September 21 - Holiday- no school

September 23- H&S Meeting- 6:00 pm Meet & Greet, 7:00 pm meeting

September 24- Movie Night (Movie TBD)

September 28-October 2- 5th Grade Pretzel Sale

October 2- Fall Festival

Throughout the summer, our leadership team carefully examined instructional technology practices and considered feedback from families, staff, and community members. This work has helped us strengthen our approach to using district-provided technology tools in ways that enhance learning, support students' developmental needs, and promote digital safety. To keep our community informed and engaged in this process, I would like to share two new resources.

As part of this work, I would like to share two new resources with our community.

The first is our Instructional Technology Focus webpage for the 2026-27 school year. This resource outlines the district's instructional technology priorities across all grade levels and provides additional context about the feedback we received during our review process.

The second is an overview of our new Technology Advisory Council. The council will include teachers, parents and guardians, board members, administrators, and district technology staff. Together, these members will provide ongoing feedback as we continue evaluating instructional technology practices and plan for the future.

I encourage you to take a few minutes to explore both resources. We will continue communicating with families about instructional technology throughout the school year and appreciate your partnership as we work together to support engaging, purposeful, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences for all students.

Russell Johnston, PhD

Superintendent of Schools

As we approach the start of the school year, we would like to share a friendly reminder about our attendance procedures. While the information below has not changed, reviewing these guidelines can help ensure that student absences are properly reported and recorded.

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. LaRose at 610-892-3470 x 4506 or jlarose@wssd.org.

Reporting an Absence:

Attendance notes should be submitted through the PowerSchool Parent Portal, preferably on the day of the absence.

If you are unable to submit a note through the portal, please send a written note to the attendance office within three school days of your child's return. For absences of one or two days, the note should include:

• Student's full name
• Date(s) of absence
• Reason for absence
• Parent/guardian signature

For absences of three or more consecutive days, a physician's note is required in accordance with District policy.

*Please note that contacting a teacher or the attendance secretary by phone or email is appreciated as a courtesy, but it does not excuse an absence. Absences can only be excused through a note submitted via the Parent Portal or directly to the attendance office.

Attendance Resources and Helpful Links:

• Pennsylvania Attendance Regulations (PA Code):
  https://www.pacode.com/secure/data/022/chapter11/chap11toc.htm
• WSSD Attendance Policy (Policy 204):
  https://go.boarddocs.com/pa/wlsw/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=D4WN6N5C1CB
• WSSD Attendance Note Form:
  https://www.wssd.org/fs/resource-manager/view/49de9680-e904-4fab-85f6-3ec9e327440b
• PowerSchool Parent Portal Instructions:
  https://www.wssd.org/fs/resource-manager/view/2ba65c26-6013-4108-b786-b4d4ebe2f0e8

If you experience any difficulty uploading attendance notes in the Parent Portal, please contact Mr. Derrick Clements at dclements@wssd.org for assistance.

As we prepare for the 2026–2027 school year, we would like to remind families of important transportation procedures regarding student bus assignments and bus stop changes. These procedures are intended to provide safe, consistent, and efficient transportation for all students.

Under the District’s updated transportation policy, each student will be permitted one designated bus stop in the morning and one designated bus stop in the afternoon. These stops may be different from one another; however, students must use their assigned morning and afternoon stop five (5) days per week.

Please note the following:

• Students may only ride the bus to which they are officially assigned and rostered. Students who are not listed on a bus roster will not be permitted to ride that bus.
• Transportation changes will not be permitted for social arrangements, including riding home with a friend, going to a friend’s house, sleepovers, playdates, or other temporary changes in plans.
• If an emergency situation requires a temporary change to a student’s transportation, the request must be submitted through PowerSchool. The bus change requests should be submitted at least three (3) school days in advance whenever possible. This allows sufficient time for the building principal to review the request, for Transportation to make any necessary arrangements, and, most importantly, to ensure the bus driver is properly notified of the approved change.
• Emergency transportation requests will be reviewed by the student’s building principal. If approved, the Transportation Department will be notified so the appropriate arrangements can be made.
• Submission of a request does not automatically guarantee that a transportation change can be accommodated. Changes are subject to approval, available seating, routing, and operational considerations. Parents/guardians will be notified of approved emergency arrangements.

Maintaining consistent bus assignments and accurate student rosters is an important part of ensuring that we know which students are riding each vehicle and where they are expected to board and exit the bus. Providing advance notice of approved changes also ensures that our drivers have accurate information before beginning their routes.

We appreciate your cooperation in following these procedures and helping us maintain a safe and reliable transportation system for all students.

If you have questions about your child’s bus route, stop location, or general transportation info, please reach out to the WSSD Transportation Office at 610.892.3470 ext. 1702.

ARRVIAL:

Students should no be dropped off prior to 8:20 am, unless they are attending school-sponsored music lessons.

• Children who walk to school via College Avenue use the sidewalk on the same side as the school. If children use the sidewalk on the opposite side of the school, students should cross with the crossing guard stationed at the intersection of Princeton and College Avenues. Children arriving from College Avenue may walk through the building to reach the courtyard, or they may enter the courtyard via Princeton Avenue.
• Bus riders exit their buses on Princeton Avenue in the morning. For safety reasons, we ask that students who are driven to school not be dropped off on Princeton Avenue.
• The assistants will direct students to their designated waiting areas. Students in Grade 1 will wait in the cafeteria, Grades 2 and 3 in the auditorium and Grades 4 and 5 will go to the gymnasium. Kindergarten students will wait in the rear of the auditorium with their classroom assistant.
• Students in grades 3-5 may ride bicycles, skateboards, roller blades, and scooters to school. Primary grade students (1st and 2nd graders) may ride bicycles if accompanied by an adult. Bicycle racks are provided in the school courtyard. It is recommended that all bicycles be securely locked at the rack. Children must wear a helmet as required by PA Law.
• Parents are permitted to drive their vehicles through the staff parking lot (front) and drop their students off between the cones on the sidewalk. Staff members will be positioned at the front door from 8:20 to 8:45 a.m. to assist students exiting vehicles, to help keep the flow of traffic moving and to keep our students safe.

DISMISSAL:

Upon dismissal, elementary walkers may meet their parents outside the auditorium entrance on Princeton Avenue or may discuss another area to meet such as the playground with their children. Car riders may be picked up along College Avenue. Walkers will exit the building using the door near the auditorium on College Avenue. Parents will park on College Avenue to receive their children.

KINDERGARTEN

Arrival Procedures:

• A.M. Session (Car Riders / Walkers) - For kindergarten walkers / car riders arriving at SRS, parents are to park on College Avenue and walk students to the auditorium. A kindergarten staff member will meet morning kindergarten students beginning between 8:20 a.m.- 8:40 a.m. in the auditorium.
• P.M. Session (Car Riders / Walkers) - Afternoon kindergarten students should be dropped off to the front lobby between 12:35 -12:40 p.m. Classroom assistants will walk students to their classroom.

Dismissal Procedures:

• A.M. Session: (Car Riders/Walkers) - Students are not permitted to leave the building until a parent or guardian is present. Upon dismissal at 11:30 a.m. parents should park and walk to the front lobby where children will be supervised by a kindergarten staff member.

• P.M. Session: (Car Riders / Walkers)

  • Students are not permitted to leave the building until a parent or guardian is present. Upon dismissal at 3:30 p.m. parents should park and walk to the front main lobby entrance where children will be supervised by a kindergarten staff member.

The first week of school is full of excitement—but we also know it can feel a little overwhelming, especially for our younger students. A little preparation goes a long way in helping everyone feel confident and calm.

Here are a few helpful tips as you get ready:
✅ Begin easing into school-year routines (earlier bedtimes, morning practice runs)
✅ Help your child learn how to open their lunchbox, snack containers, or water bottle
✅ Review arrival and dismissal routines so your child knows what to expect

For our younger learners, we strongly recommend filling out the printable ID tag (linked below) with their:
– Student name

– Teacher name/room #

– Bus number or car rider
– Parent phone number

This SRS Student ID card can be worn on a lanyard, pinned to a backpack, or placed in a clear pocket so it’s easy for your child—and our staff—to access during the day.

*Pro tip- print multiple. They will likely get lost so just be sure to have one ready for each day until your student feels ready.

The SRS Student ID is a great way to reduce first-week worries and give everyone—students and staff—a little extra confidence as we settle into the new school year. It helps staff guide your child if they need support during arrival, dismissal, or transitions—and gives everyone peace of mind as we all settle in for a great start.

"SNAP changes related to the H.R. 1 law may reduce the number of students directly certified for free meals."

Getting ready for the new school year? We’ve made it easy. You can now access grade-level school supply lists directly on our website to help you check off everything your child will need for a smooth start to the year.

Whether you’re shopping early or picking up last-minute items, we’ve got you covered.

Mark your calendars for September 17! Back to School Night is right around the corner, and we’d love to see every family there.

This is your chance to meet your child’s teacher, hear about classroom routines and expectations, and learn how we can partner together to make this school year the smoothest one yet.

You’ll also hear from our Home & School Association and get a sneak peek at the events, initiatives, and volunteer opportunities that make our school community so special.

We know how busy family life can get—but staying connected from the start makes a world of difference.

We hope you’ll join us!

Behind every teacher appreciation lunch, movie night, and joyful school-wide event is a team of dedicated parent volunteers—our Home & School Association. They’re the glue that brings our SRS community together, and this year, they need us more than ever.

With our fifth grade class parents moving on, we’re looking for new volunteers to step in and help keep the magic going. Whether you can spare an hour a month or want to dive into a committee, every hand makes a difference—and yes, grandparents, neighbors, and friends are welcome too!

Not sure you can volunteer? Donations are just as appreciated and go directly toward the events and experiences that make SRS feel like home.

Let’s keep the spirit of SRS strong—together. We can't do it without you!

Back-to-School Night with Parent Social at Ship Bottom Brewery

• Thursday, September 17, 2026
• 6:00 PM 8:00 PM
• SRS Home and School (map)
• Google Calendar ICS

Exact times and further details to be confirmed.

Home & School Meeting with Meet & Greet

• Wednesday, September 23, 2026
• 6:00 PM 8:00 PM
• SRS Home and School (map)
• Google Calendar ICS

Join SRS Home & School for a Meet & Greet in the library, where you’ll have the chance to connect with fellow parents, teachers, and staff. Right after, at 7:00 PM, we’ll host our first Home & School meeting of the year. It’s a great way to get involved, share ideas and help make this school year the best one yet — we’d love to see you there!

Zoom info will be shared ahead of the meeting

Movie Night

• Thursday, September 24, 2026
• 6:00 PM 8:00 PM
• SRS Home and School (map)
• Google Calendar ICS

Movie Night! Join SRS families for a movie on the big screen on Thursday, September 24! Pre-order pizza or grab slices, snacks, and sweets from 5th grade. Bring a blanket or chairs and enjoy a fun night with friends!

Fall Festival

• Friday, October 2, 2026
• 5:00 PM 7:00 PM
• SRS Home and School (map)
• Google Calendar ICS

🍂 Join us for the SRS Fall Festival! 🍂

Mark your calendars! The annual SRS Fall Festival is happening on Friday, October 2, from 5–7 PM. Come out for an evening of autumn fun featuring games, prizes, food vendors, pumpkins, and an obstacle course.

Stay tuned for more details as the event gets closer!

If you’re planning to attend a classroom event, chaperone a field trip, help with an activity, or volunteer in any capacity this year—we kindly ask that you complete your volunteer clearances as soon as possible.

Clearances are required for anyone working with or around students in our schools. The good news? They’re valid for five years and completing them now ensures you won’t miss out on those special moments later.

Everything you need to get started—including step-by-step instructions—is available below.

Clearances are processed and kept at the district level, so once you’re approved, you’re set to volunteer across schools. Don’t wait—start the process now so you're ready for fall events!

As we prepare for the year ahead, we’re excited to share the district calendar, designed to help families plan ahead with ease. From holidays and early-release days to important parent events, this calendar has everything you need to organize your family schedule with confidence.

Take a look at:

• First and last day of school

• Holiday and break schedules

• Early dismissal and professional development days

• Special events and parent/teacher conferences

You can view or download the full calendar using the link below.

Wondering about arrival times, dismissal procedures, dress code, or what to do if your child is absent?

The answers—and so much more—can be found in the SRS Family Handbook.

This is your one-stop guide for school policies, routines, and expectations. We encourage every family to take a few minutes to review it and bookmark the link for quick reference throughout the year.

Please be sure to take a moment to confirm your contact information and opt in to our online student directory through PowerSchool for the upcoming school year! This year, our directory will be exclusively digital, replacing the printed version.

The online directory is a great way for you to connect with other families, share contact information for playdates, and more! Please know that we cannot include your information if you do not log in and provide consent for each student in your family.

You can follow these simple steps to ensure your family is included:

1. Log in to PowerSchool

2. Click on “Forms”

3. Scroll down to “Back to School” and click on “Student Directory Information”

4. Make any changes and click “Submit”

We appreciate your help in making this a comprehensive resource for our school community!

QUICK LINKS: FORMS | ATTENDANCE | HOME & SCHOOL | POWERSCHOOL | CLEARANCES